Frank Brigsten played host Friday night, but on Saturday he predicted all out war in the Great American Seafood Cook-off.

Brigsten, whose restaurant of the same name is known for its seafood and sauces, was chosen by Gov. Kathleen Blanco to represent the state in the cook-off, which will be held as part of the Louisiana Foodservice Expo this weekend at the New Orleans convention center.

"I think it will be pretty tough competition," he said.

Teams from 20 states will prepare a seafood dish that reflects their home state's cuisine. Last year, executive chef Randy Evans of Brennan's of Houston won with his "Wild Caught Texas Shrimp with Biscuits and Gravy."

Judges will select the King or Queen of American Seafood 2006 after sampling the dishes.

"I'm delighted they are having the cook-off here this year," Brigsten said. "It's a great show of support for all of us."

Brigsten, who apprenticed under renowned chef Paul Prudhomme, opened Brigsten's in 1986. The restaurant did not flood during Hurricane Katrina and reopened in December.